The Chicago Bears could face serious challenges if either defensive tackle Andrew Billings or Gervon Dexter Sr. suffers an injury. Beyond these two players, the team lacks depth on the defensive line and would benefit from reinforcing the position sooner rather than later. One possible solution for bolstering the defensive tackle position could be a trade for New Orleans Saints DT Bryan Bresee.
Bears Should Trade for Saints Bryan Bresee
Bryan Bresee Would Be an Instant Difference-Maker for the Bears
Bryan Bresee has made steady progress since being drafted in the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft. He recorded 4.5 sacks and 24 total tackles in his rookie season while appearing in all 17 games. However, his playing time was limited to just 48.69%, which is less than what’s typical for a first-round pick. This season, he finds himself in a similar situation, sitting behind Khalen Saunders and Nathan Shepherd on the depth chart. Despite this, Bresee has continued to develop, with Saints Head Coach Dennis Allen noting his improvement as a run defender. Coming into the league, Bresee had solid ability as a pass rusher but needed to refine his run-stopping skills. Now, he can take the next step and potentially play a more prominent role with the Bears.
Short set, poor base.. Done in about 1.2 seconds.
Even for the good ones. Breese vs Lindstrom. pic.twitter.com/V9yUWFieSv
— Ben Fennell (@BenFennell_NFL) October 2, 2024
If There’s One Position the Bears Need to Trade For, Its Defensive Tackle
Surprisingly, the Bears have one of the best defensive tackle duos in the NFL right now, with Billings and Dexter Sr.
Billings has been a force in both pass rushing and run defense, while Dexter Sr. has made massive strides in his second NFL season. Despite their success, the backup players haven’t been as reliable.
Third-round pick Zacch Pickens has been one of the more disappointing players this season. He hasn’t met expectations, sustained a groin injury, and hasn’t played since Week 2’s loss to the Houston Texans, also ruling him out for the upcoming game in London against the Jacksonville Jaguars. This leaves Chris Williams, with just five total tackles, and Bryan Cowart, who has only two tackles, as the remaining defensive tackles.
Knock on wood, but if something happens to one of the Bears starting defensive tackles, they could have a huge problem. Having quality depth is extremely important for a team that’s 3-2 and fighting to make the playoffs. This makes a lot of sense with reports that the Bears were interested in upgrading at defensive tackle. Bresee can be a key rotational piece on crucial downs who can get to the quarterback from the interior of the line.
What’s in It for the Saints?
The Saints are 2-3 and currently in third place in the NFC South. If there’s any hope for the team moving forward, it’s recognizing that Derek Carr may not be the answer at quarterback—especially with him expected to miss a few weeks due to an oblique injury sustained against the Kansas City Chiefs. The Saints might benefit from accumulating draft capital, particularly if they can secure an early-round pick for a backup player. They could use that draft capital to draft an offensive weapon for Spencer Rattler, who is likely the future of the franchise.
Projected Trade Details
Chicago Bears Receive: Bryan Bresee, 2025 Sixth-Round Pick
New Orleans Saints Receive: 2025 Fourth-Round Pick
Main Image: Stephen Lew – USA Today Sports
